Sprayport arrives on Southport's streets

More than 20 street artists will be creating work at the festival

Street art by Irony, who will appearing at Sprayport, part of Southport Arts Festival

Share

Get daily updates directly to your inbox

Thank you for subscribing!

Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email

Street artists from all over the UK are set to descend on the resort this weekend to take part in Sprayport.

This Sunday from 11am-6pm, more than 20 street artists will convene on the streets of Southport to paint canvases, building walls and shop shutters.

The event is the brainchild of local street art enthusiasts Neil Morris and Keith Lack and is one of the first events of Southport Arts Festival, which runs between August 16 and August 25.

Keith said: “I’m really excited about this weekend’s festival. It should be amazing if the weather holds out for us.

“People can expect lots of colour and we hope to add a real brightness to the town.

“There will be a display of boards in the Diana Memorial Gardens, as well as some bigger pieces.

“We’ve got artists coming from Sheffield, the Lake District and the Midlands to name but a few; everyone has their own individual style, so we’re hoping for a real mash up.

“We’ve invited Banksy but we’re not holding our breath.”

Faunagraphic, one of the street artists coming to the Sprayport event at Southport Arts Festival

Those who come along will be able to learn techniques and watch live painting. Children will be shown how to draw and stencil and the artists will be bringing free pieces to gift to visitors.

Phil Flack, owner of Southport HiFi Centre, has agreed to have his shutters painted again after having them done three years ago. He said: “I was quite reluctant to donate my shutter at first, but all my initial reservations were dispelled.

“People kept coming to have a look at the shop and not one person vandalised or defaced the shutter. It’s been really great.”